In the morning we will depart from Paris to arrive at the heart of the Provence, “Avignon,” in the evening. This region of France is very diverse with lively cities, winding mountains that will change its distinct views depending on the season of the year. Let’s take a break from the fashion and luxury of the big metropoles and head to the south of France. Enjoy the sceneries of picturesque small towns, wind down and appreciate nature and the rural culture. You will experience the romantic ambience of South France, visit Gordes, the most beautiful village of the Provence. Follow in Vincent van Gogh’s footsteps in the small town of Arles and taste the world-renowned mellow flavor of Bordeaux wine, and visit the shopping paradise that is Andorra.
We will start the day in Avignon visiting the two must see landmarks. The Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) and the Pont Saint-Bénézet, the broken bridge which is also know as Pont d’Avignon. The palace dates to the 14th century, with the support from the King of France the Roman church moved its capital thus making Avignon the second religious capital of the Roman-Catholic church. In the afternoon we will depart to visit Gordes, famous from A Year in Provence, the book, written by Peter Mayle. The village of Gordes is made of limestone dating back to 1525 with its buildings rooting themselves into the steep cliff giving the village town its other names; the Stone City and the City in the Sky. The village is considered by the Association des plus villages de France one of France’s most beautiful villages. Afterwards we will have a short stay at the Musee de la Lavande, the lavender museum, and the Abbaye de Sénanque which Catholic Cistercian originate from and the story background of the book A Year in Provence. （Please note：Lavender is a seasonal plant which blooms from July till the beginning of August affected by climate, growth and harvesting periods, therefore we are unable to guarantee whether clients will see fresh lavender！）
In the morning we will drive to Arles. The small town is famous because the well-known Dutch master of Impressionism, Vincent van Gogh, whom lived in the sanatorium of Arles from 1888 – 1889. Although Van Gogh stayed for only one year, that single year is considered the most productive period of his life. He painted more than two hundred oil paintings during his stay in Arles. Creating his world-renowned art pieces; The Langlois Bridge at Arles and The Café Terrace on the Place du Forum. It is a true unique experience to visit town and see what the Dutch master saw himself over a century ago. Other than enjoying the village’s connection with Van Gogh there are many ancient Roman ruins to behold. Arles has been listed as a key city since ancient Roman times. In the afternoon we will leave Arles for the charming coastal city of Barcelona. If time permits, upon arrival, everyone can participate in an optional program to visit the Olympic Beach.
In the morning, embark on a self-paid group activity and drive to the mountainous area to visit the "Montserrat Monastery,"Located on the famous Catalan Mountain. The well-known abbey is the most important religious shrine in Catalonia. The monastery is home to La Moreneta, the black Madonna. The black-faced Madonna statue holding the holy child in her lap is the guardian of the spirit and soul of the local people. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant and charming city of Barcelona. The attractions include the Columbus Monument and La Rambla. Continue to visit the iconic Sagrada Familia, the masterpiece of the architectural genius Antoni Gaudí, known as the "architect poet." Afterward, visit the exterior of Camp Nou, the famous football stadium, for photos and souvenir shopping. Then, proceed to Montjuïc Hill to visit the Olympic Stadium, which hosted the 1992 Olympic Games. From the hill, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. The remaining time is free for leisure activities at the bustling Catalunya Square. Return to the hotel after dinner. Note: Camp Nou will undergo major renovations starting from June 2023 and is expected to last for approximately 2 years. Reservation visit time: 15:00 – 15:30. Due to limited daily access control in Sagrada Família church, and to avoid disappoint, we recommend customer who strongly request to visit this place to book tickets online in advance on www.sagradafamilia.org
In the morning we will travel to the Principality of Andorra. This microstate is located between France and Spain in the eastern Pyrenees. The state is surrounded by mountains and rough terrain. Its capital, Andorra la Vella, is Europe’s highest capital with an elevation of 1,023 meters. Andorra is a popular destination for alpine skiing in Europe. Although most Asian travelers do not give Andorra much attention, it is certainly worth a visit with its beautiful sceneries. Also known for duty-free shopping it is a shopping paradise. After lunch we will drive through the Pyrenees entering France arriving at the town of Lourdes. It its said that the Virgin Mary appeared at Lourdes some 150 years ago and since has become a place of pilgrimage with records of countless medical miracles. Each year over five million pilgrims visit the town. （Please note：From October till the end of February due to winter weather we will not visit Andorra and reroute to Carcassonne in France. Carcassonne is a World Heritage Site city with its landmark Castle of Carcassonne. There are 3 km of double walls and 52 towers in the city）
Today we will travel from Lourdes to the famous wine region Bordeaux. While in Bordeaux we will visit a well-known winery and its vineyards. You will have an opportunity to taste and buy wine direct from the source. After our stop at the winery, we will head to city Bordeaux, visiting famous landmarks such as the opera house Gran Teatro de Burdeos, the world’s largest water mirror called Miroir d’Eau and the famous Place des Quinconces and so on. At the end of the day, you will have some free leisure time in the city center of Bordeaux. （Please note：Most wineries in Bordeaux are closed to tourists in August or during festivals. Please understand that during this time we will not be able to visit the wineries however we will be able to taste and buy wine in the city center of Bordeaux）
Departing from Bordeaux we will be traveling to the world-famous tourist attraction the Loire Valley. The Loire is the longest river in France with a length of 1020 km and is known as the mother river of France. In the Loire Valley there are magnificent and gorgeous castles on both sides of the river. In the afternoon we will arrive at the Chambord Castle also known as the King of Castles. The castle was originally built to serve as a hunting lodge for King Francois I of France in 1519 to make a statement of his imperial power. The King hired Italian artists and architects such as Leonardo da Vinci and Domenico da Cortona to attribute the brilliant art and architectural style of the Italian Renaissance. By doing this he laid the foundation of the French Renaissance. Afterwards will be heading to Paris and will arrive around 7 pm.
Sagrada Família Church basic entry (ticket + audio guide) Reservation visit time: 15:00 – 15:30. Due to limited daily access control in Sagrada Família church, and to avoid disappoint, we recommend customer who strongly request to visit this place to book tickets online in advance on www.sagradafamilia.org
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